Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Majors

Chemists and material scientists search for and use new knowledge about chemicals. Chemical research has led to the discovery and development of new and improved synthetic fibers, paints, adhesives, drugs, cosmetics, electronic components, lubricants, and thousands of other products. Chemists and materials scientists also develop processes that save energy and reduce pollution, such as improved oil refining and petrochemical processing methods. Research on the chemistry of living things spurs advances in medicine, agriculture, food processing, and other fields.  Many chemists and materials scientists work in research and development (R&D).

What can I do with this degree?
Career options: Chemists and materials scientists held about 91,000 jobs in 2002. About 44 percent of all chemists and material scientists are employed in manufacturing firms—mostly in the chemical manufacturing industry, which includes firms that produce plastics and synthetic materials, drugs, soaps and cleaners, pesticides and fertilizers, paint, industrial organic chemicals, and other chemical products. About 15 percent of chemists and material scientists work in scientific research and development services; another 13 percent work in architectural, engineering, and related services. In addition, thousands of persons with a background in chemistry and materials science hold teaching positions in high schools and in colleges and universities.

Academic options: This chemistry program is designed for people who will transfer to a four-year institution as well as those who will enter directly into health-related professional schools.

Department/Contact Information: 

• Office of Advising : 903-510-2425
• Rodney J. Whetzel, Instructor/Chairman, Chemistry Department
  - Genecov 206 | rwhe@tjc.edu | 903-510-2223

Chemistry courses at Tyler Junior College are designed to meet the needs of students whose majors are chemistry, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other professional degree plans requiring advanced work in chemistry. 

Chemical Engineering majors should refer to the TJC Field of Study Degree Plan for Engineering Majors (0901), but substitute CHEM 2423 & CHEM 2425 for ENGR 2301 & ENGR 2302.

Students with a weak background in chemistry or math should consider taking Fundamentals of Chemistry (CHEM 1406) prior to enrolling in General Chemistry (CHEM 1411).  Students without a physics background are also encouraged to take General Physics (PHYS 1401) prior to enrolling in Mechanics (PHYS 2425).

* Indicates courses required for graduation from Tyler Junior College with an Associate in Arts degree.  A total of 60 hours must be completed to earn an AA degree.  In addition, students must complete the General Graduation Requirements for all Degrees listed in the TJC Catalog.

Visual/Performing Arts:
ARTS 1301; DRAM 1310; MUSI 1306; ARTS 1303, 1304; DANC 2303; DRAM 2361, 2362; MUSI 1308, 1309

Humanities:
COMM 1307; ENGL 2322, 2323, 2327, 2328, 2332, 2333, 2352, 2353; HIST 2311, 2312; HUMA 1301, 1302; PHIL 1301, 2306; FREN 2311, 2312; SPAN 2311, 2312, 2317; SGNL 2301, 2302

Social/Behavioral Science:
ECON 2301, 2302; GEOG 1303; PSYC 2301, 2314, 2319; SOCI 1301, 2301, 2331

Laboratory Sciences:
Must be lab-based and includes chemistry, biology, geology, physics, and astronomy.

Institutional Option:
AGRI 1309; BCIS 1301; BCIS 1405; ENGR 2304; FREN 2311; SGNL 2301; SPAN 2311

**This is a suggested degree plan and students are strongly encouraged to seek advisement for course planning from their academic advisor or faculty advisor.  Since senior college requirements differ, Tyler Junior College recommends that all students who plan to transfer check with their senior college regarding transferability of particular classes into degree requirements.  The final responsibility for the selection, scheduling, and satisfactory completion of degree or certificate requirements rests with the student.**